Cub Scout Pack 236 of Long Valley tops of the current list on the Environmental Honor Roll. In an effort to comply with New Jersey’s Storm water regulations, the scouts marked over 60 drains in the Tiger Hill neighborhood with a blue disk stating “No Dumping, Drains to Stream.” The Cub Scouts were working on their Conservation Good Turn Award and, thanks to the Upper Raritan Watershed Association, were advised to contact your local environmental commission for the project.

URWA’s new Director of Natural Sciences, Melissa Almendinger met with members of Pack 236 on a beautiful Sunday in August in Liberty Park to demonstrate the effects of pollution on storm water. A number of scenarios were proposed in which a scout was asked to correctly identify the pollutant. Many were surprised at the variety of pollutants that can affect the health of our water. Afterwards the pack broke up into three teams to mark the drains and to distribute educational materials informing residents on how they can prevent storm water pollution. We are truly grateful that these young stewards and their parents who lent a hand in this important mission.

Jim Maguire Dan Garry
Thomas Maguire Tim Garry
Jerry Stone John Hemmings
Ryan Stone Doug Hemmings
Dave Michaeli Susan Goodhand
Alex Michaeli Patrick Goodhand
Jeff Garry Harris Goodhand

You Can Make a Difference in Your Own Backyard!
Managing storm water in your own backyard is important. As an integral part of the watershed that you live in, what you do in your backyard makes a difference. Here are some examples of what you can do at home:

  • Reduce impervious surfaces by using pavers or bricks rather than concrete for a driveway or sidewalk.
  • Divert rain from paved surfaces onto grass to permit gradual infiltration.
  • Landscape with the environment in mind. Choose the appropriate plants, shrubs and trees for the soil in your yard; don’t select plants that need lots of watering (which increases surface runoff), fertilizers or pesticides.
  • Maintain your car properly so that motor oil, brake linings, exhaust and other fluids don’t contribute to water pollution.
  • Keep storm water clean. Never dump litter, motor oil, animal waste, or leaves into storm drains or catch basins.